PS5 Games Recommended: Top Picks & Must-Play Titles

If you’re staring at your PS5’s home screen wondering what to play next, you’re not alone. The PS5 library has matured fast — from jaw-dropping exclusives to deep third-party RPGs and couch-friendly multiplayer. This guide on PS5 games recommended gives clear picks for different tastes, real-world reasons to try each title, and quick buying tips so you don’t waste cash or time. I’ll highlight standout choices, why they shine on the PlayStation 5, and when you should wait for a sale.

How I picked these PS5 game recommendations

I looked for variety: exclusives, genres, replay value, and technical polish. I read reviews, checked player feedback, and played many of these myself. What I’ve noticed: a few titles consistently earn praise for performance on the PlayStation 5 and deliver unique experiences you won’t forget.

Top recommended PS5 games by player type

Below are curated picks grouped by what you might be after — story, multiplayer, action, or deep RPG systems. Each entry includes why it stands out on PS5 and who should try it.

Best overall — Elden Ring (RPG / Open World)

Elden Ring is a modern classic: expansive world-building, tough-but-fair combat, and endless player-created challenges. On PS5 it loads faster and keeps a steadier framerate than older consoles. If you love exploration and satisfying combat, this is a must-play.

Top single-player exclusive — Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (Action / Narrative)

PlayStation exclusives still define the platform. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 packs cinematic set pieces, superb traversal, and clear next-gen polish. If you enjoy tightly crafted narratives and fast movement, this will likely be your favorite.

Best for story fans — God of War Ragnarök (Action / Story)

God of War Ragnarök blends blockbuster storytelling with tactical combat. The PS5 version benefits from shorter load times and enhanced visuals that make the world feel alive. Great for players who value character-driven journeys.

Best PS5 multiplayer — Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (Shooter / Online)

For competitive or cooperative play, recent Call of Duty titles deliver fast, responsive matches and strong online communities. On PS5, expect quick matchmaking and crisp performance.

Best PS5 exclusives value — Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (Platformer / Action)

If you want a visually dazzling, family-friendly experience that showcases the PS5’s SSD and ray tracing, Rift Apart is a brilliant pick. Shorter campaign, big smiles.

Best for deep RPG systems — Final Fantasy XVI (JRPG)

Final Fantasy XVI brings action-oriented combat to a long-running franchise with a mature story. It’s a solid choice if you like lengthy campaigns and rich lore.

Best indie standout — Stray (Adventure / Puzzle)

Short and sweet, Stray tells a charming story with tight design and surprisingly emotional beats. Great for a weekend run.

Quick comparison: top PS5 games at a glance

This table helps you match game strengths to your play style.

Buying tips and when to wait for a deal

PS5 games go on sale often. If a title isn’t time-sensitive (like a multiplayer season), waiting for seasonal discounts can save a lot. I usually wait for a sale on big single-player games unless reviews show it’s a once-in-a-generation experience.

• Check official store pages for bundles and patches — developers often add free updates for PS5 improvements. See the PlayStation Store for official details: PlayStation official site.
• Look for frame-rate modes on PS5 — some offer better visuals, others prioritize performance.
• Read recent patch notes or community threads before buying if multiplayer balance matters.

Performance notes: why PS5 matters

The PS5’s SSD and improved GPU mean faster load times and richer textures. From what I’ve seen, games like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 are demonstrable showcases of next-gen hardware. For background on the console itself, this Wikipedia entry offers a solid overview: PlayStation 5 on Wikipedia.

Genres and recommended picks (quick guide)

Short picks depending on genre preference.

• Action / Adventure: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök
• RPG: Elden Ring, Final Fantasy XVI
• Shooter: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, Destiny 2
• Indie / Short: Stray, Hades
• Family / Co-op: Sackboy: A Big Adventure, It Takes Two

Where to read reviews and follow updates

Major outlets and community hubs help you spot issues, DLC plans, and patch timelines. I rely on specialist coverage for context. For curated lists and recent reviews, IGN’s roundups are useful: IGN: best PS5 games.

Final thoughts and next steps

If you want one recommendation to start with: pick based on time and mood. Want something short and sweet? Try Stray. Craving an epic grind? Go Elden Ring. After a narrative ride? Grab God of War Ragnarök or Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. From my experience, balancing a big epic with a shorter game makes the library feel fresh longer.

If you liked this list, check those official pages and curated reviews before buying. Happy gaming — and remember, the best PS5 game is the one you’ll actually play.